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Alteration in CatSper1 and 2 genes expression, sperm parameters and testis histology in varicocelized rats
Soleimani, Maryam Zohour; Mashayekhi, Farideh Jalali; Hasanzade, Morteza Mousavi & Baazm, Maryam
Abstract
Background: CatSper gene, a member of cation channel sperm family, has an
essential role in sperm motility and male fertility. Following varicocele, sperm
parameters especially sperm movement decreases. For this reason, we hypothesized
that CatSper gene expression might be reduced after varicocele induction in an
animal model.
Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of CatSper 1 and 2
genes, sperm parameters and testis histology following varicocele induction.
Materials and Methods: A total of 30 Wistar male rats were randomly divided into
three following groups (n=10/ each): control, sham, and varicocele group.
Experimental varicocele was induced by partial ligation of the left renal vein. The
epididymal sperm parameters, CatSper1 and 2 genes expression, and testes histology
were studied two months after varicocele induction.
Results: Our results revealed that motility (32.73±16.14%), morphology
(48.80±17%) and viability (31.23±9.82%) of sperms significantly reduced following
varicocele induction. In addition, we showed a significant decrease in the number of
spermatogonia (43.63±5.31) and seminiferous tubules diameters (190.51±19.23 mm)
in experimental varicocele rats. The level of CatSper1 and 2 genes expression
evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction was significantly
downregulated 2 months after varicocele induction.
Conclusion: Our data indicated that experimental varicocele has deleterious effects
on sperm parameters, testis structure as well as the expression of CatSper 1 and 2
genes.
Keywords
Varicocele; CatSper; Sperm parameters; Rat.
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